According to the report from the Nation, Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda has raised serious concerns about the involvement of certain security personnel and government officials in aiding gunmen, thereby turning banditry into a profitable enterprise.
Radda, whose state has been heavily impacted by the security crisis in the North West region, highlighted the significant levels of poverty in the country as a contributing factor to the escalation of insecurity. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today show on Friday, the governor commented on the recent tragic incident in Unguwar Sarkin Noma community in Sabuwa Local Government Area of Katsina State, where 24 residents lost their lives while resisting a bandit attack.
In a separate incident, another gang attacked the Ogbaulu community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State on Friday, resulting in the tragic deaths of three farmers.
Radda expressed his dismay at the situation, characterizing it as a business opportunity for criminals who exploit the vulnerabilities within the government, security forces, and local community leaders. He attributed this crisis as a significant obstacle preventing the government from effectively combating banditry.
Contrary to assertions that politics has played a role in exacerbating the security challenges, Radda dismissed these claims, emphasizing the simplicity of recruiting disenfranchised youths into banditry activities. He highlighted the ease with which some individuals can be swayed to join criminal activities for minimal amounts of money.
When questioned about the possibility of negotiating with bandits as part of a strategy to restore peace, Governor Radda emphasized the complexities involved, citing the numerous camps and leaders within the forests where the bandits operate. He explained that negotiating only with certain factions could lead to ineffective outcomes and emphasized the need to approach negotiations from a position of strength.